Togo Opposition Forms Boycott Against Upcoming Senatorial Elections
The ANC of Togo has declared its boycott of the upcoming senatorial elections, scheduled for February 2, citing concerns over previous electoral fraud. The elections form part of a controversial constitutional change aimed at enhancing parliamentary power while critics accuse President Gnassingbe of seeking to retain control indefinitely. Similar sentiments were echoed by the DMP, labeling the elections a constitutional coup.
A prominent opposition party in Togo has announced its intention to boycott the country’s inaugural senatorial elections, scheduled for February 2. This electoral process is a crucial aspect of implementing a newly contested constitution, which transitions from a presidential to a parliamentary system of governance. Opposition members, along with civil society leaders, argue that President Faure Gnassingbe is using this constitutional change to solidify his grip on power indefinitely.
The National Alliance for Change (ANC) made its position clear in a recent statement, categorically rejecting the upcoming senatorial elections. They allege that previous elections, including legislative and regional votes, were marred by significant fraud and irregularities. “In the absence of guarantees of transparency, independence and fairness, it is clear that the senatorial elections announced can only be a new masquerade,” stated the ANC.
Following the ANC’s announcement, another opposition coalition, Dynamique pour la majorite du peuple (DMP), expressed similar concerns, labeling the senatorial elections as part of a continuous constitutional coup d’état. President Gnassingbe has been in power since 2005, succeeding his father, who ruled for 38 years, raising concerns about the legitimacy of his government amid ongoing protests and bans on political rallies since 2022.
Togo has undergone significant political changes, particularly concerning its governance structure. The country’s first senatorial elections are set to occur under a new constitution that replaces the direct election of the head of state with a parliamentary system. The political climate in Togo has been tense, with longstanding grievances about electoral integrity and governance, compounded by restrictions on public protests and political gatherings imposed by the current administration.
The decision by Togo’s opposition parties to boycott the upcoming senatorial elections underscores their discontent with the current political landscape. Allegations of electoral misconduct and a lack of trust in the fairness of the electoral process contribute to their rejection. As these parties advocate for transparency and democratic integrity, the political future of Togo remains uncertain under President Gnassingbe’s extended rule.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
